Hi, I’m Wendy — and here’s something I’ve learned after years of doing bridal makeup in Costa Rica…
Your Costa Rica wedding photographer plays a huge role in how your makeup looks in photos. That’s why I always ask about your photographer’s style, lighting, and timeline—so we can create a look that feels amazing and photographs beautifully.
As a bridal makeup artist in Costa Rica, I’ve had the joy of working with incredibly talented photographers whose work inspires me. Two of those women—Joice Dahianna and Adri Méndez—have taught me so much about collaboration, creativity, and how beauty and photography can speak the same language.
This blog is for the brides who want their wedding day to feel amazing—and to look amazing in every photo.
Why I Always Ask Who Your Photographer Is
Before I start designing your bridal look, I ask:
- Who’s your wedding photographer?
- What kind of light will we have?
- Are you getting ready indoors, at the beach, in a mountain villa?
Why? Because the photographer’s style directly affects how your makeup will look in your wedding photos. The finish I choose for your skin, the depth of your eye makeup, even your lip color—it all has to align with your Costa Rica wedding photographer’s vision, lighting, and editing style.
This is where experience really matters. And when I get to work with photographers like Joice or Adri, everything just flows.
Joice Dahianna: Romantic Light & Honest Emotion
Joice is a master of capturing real, emotional moments in warm, glowing light. She works with couples who love deeply and live boldly—and she does it with so much heart.
When I know Joice is photographing the wedding, I tend to keep the makeup soft, skin-focused, and timeless:
- Light-reflecting foundation with a natural finish
- Soft golden tones for eyes and cheeks
- Waterproof mascara and lash styles that stay subtle but striking
- Cream blushes that blend perfectly in natural light
Fun fact: Joice actually interviewed me for her blog earlier this year. We talked about humidity-proof products, trial sessions, and how I help my brides feel calm and confident throughout the day.
👉 Read the full post on her website
Adriana Méndez: Modern, Documentary, Editorial
Adri & Lucas approach weddings like a visual love story. Their work feels raw and cinematic. Their clients want a mix of real emotion and powerful, high-end imagery.
When I prep a bride for Adri:
- Long-wear foundations
- Avoid products that flash back in-camera (like silica powders or SPF-heavy primers)
- Keep textures lightweight but defined—so every movement looks intentional
- Use pro lighting tools during prep so we start with the right tone and visibility
Their images tell the truth—and I love that. That means I don’t just “perfect” your skin, I enhance your natural features so you look like you, not a makeup filter.
👉 Visit Adri Méndez’s website to see her work.
Why This Collaboration Benefits You (the Bride)
When your makeup artist and photographer know how to work together, you get:
- A smoother timeline (no delays waiting for touch-ups or re-dos)
- A gallery of images where your look stays consistent from start to finish
- Less editing needed, because your skin already looks flawless under the lens
- A more relaxed, beautiful day—for you and everyone around you
And let’s be honest: your wedding day moves fast. When the team is aligned, you don’t have to worry about the details. We’ve got you.
Tips I Share With Every Destination Bride
Whether you’re planning a full wedding or a Costa Rica elopement, here’s how to get the best beauty and photo results:
1. Book a makeup trial
We’ll test your look under similar lighting and weather conditions so you know exactly how it will perform on your day.
2. Coordinate your timeline with your photographer
Golden hour is short! Let me help you time your getting-ready moments to align with the best lighting for photos.
3.Use high-performance products
My kit includes brands like Haus Labs, Givenchy, Lancôme, Pat Mcgrath, Hourglass, Laura Mercier,, Urban Decay, and more—sweat-proof, waterproof, long-lasting formulas made for tropical weddings.
5. Trust your team
You hired us for a reason. Let go. Feel it. Enjoy your day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make sure my bridal makeup lasts all day in Costa Rica?
I use waterproof, humidity-resistant, long-wear products—and we test everything during your trial so there are no surprises.
Do I really need a trial session?
Yes! Trials are where we fine-tune colors, durability, and photo-readiness. You’ll feel so much more confident going into your big day.
What makeup works best for beach or rainforest weddings?
Natural or soft glam finishes, created with lightweight techniques that feel fresh and comfortable, while ensuring flawless long-lasting wear throughout the event.
Should my makeup timeline match my photo schedule?
Absolutely. That’s why I always ask who your Costa Rica wedding photographer is—so we align light, timing, and your final look.
From My Heart to Yours
Being your bridal makeup artist is more than just applying foundation—it’s creating calm, helping you breathe, and making sure you feel radiant every step of the way.
To Joice and Adri—thank you for capturing my work in ways I’ll never forget. And to you, bride-to-be: if you’re planning your wedding in Costa Rica and want your makeup to be photo-ready, emotion-ready, and humidity-proof, I’m here.
Let’s plan your perfect look—together.🧡
Wendy Herrera